Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage linked to prolonged blood sugar changes, and the feet are often affected first. Early signs may be easy to ignore, such as tingling, burning, pins-and-needles sensations, or unusual numbness in the toes. Some people feel sharp, shooting pain, while others notice their feet seem less sensitive to heat, cold, or minor injuries. This loss of feeling can be especially concerning because cuts, blisters, or pressure spots may go unnoticed, and worsen over time. Muscle weakness in the feet can also change the way a person walks, leading to balance problems or foot shape changes. Because these symptoms may develop gradually, many people do not realize nerve damage is progressing. Early evaluation can help identify the problem and reduce the risk of serious complications. If you have unusual foot symptoms and diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM from Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic foot ulcers are slow healing wounds that appear on the feet of individuals with diabetes and can become a very serious health issue. Almost a quarter of all individuals diagnosed with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer at some point in their life. There are several types of diabetic foot ulcers, and knowing which type you have can help determine the most effective treatment. Neuropathic ulcers occur when nerve damage from diabetic neuropathy prevents the patient with diabetes from feeling pain from an injury. This allows the wound to progress before you are even aware of it, increasing the risk of infection. Ischemic ulcers may be caused by a lack of blood flow to the feet. These types of ulcers are often difficult to heal. Neuroischemic ulcers are the most difficult to heal and occur in individuals who have both neuropathy and poor circulation. Infected wounds occur in half of diabetic patients with foot ulcers, and require close medical attention. If you have diabetic foot ulcers, it is highly recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you look after your wounds and prevent severe complications.  

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Jennifer Swan, DPM from Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The MTP joints, also called metatarsophalangeal joints, connect the long bones of the foot to the toes and play a key role in walking and balance. Problems in these joints can develop from repeated stress, poor foot mechanics, or conditions like arthritis. Pain often appears at the base of the toes and may include swelling, stiffness, or a feeling of limited motion. Risk factors include wearing tight shoes, high impact activities, and structural issues like bunions. Over time, joint irritation can lead to inflammation and changes in how weight is distributed across the foot. A podiatrist can examine joint function, order imaging if needed, and provide custom orthotics or targeted care to relieve pressure and improve movement. If you have this type of foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.  

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Jennifer Swan, DPM from Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains are among the most common foot and ankle injuries, and occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn. This often happens during sports, uneven walking surfaces, or sudden twisting movements that force the ankle inward or outward. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the foot. In some cases, the ankle may feel unstable or weak when walking. A mild sprain can improve with rest, while more severe injuries may involve significant swelling and limited movement. Without proper treatment, repeated sprains can lead to chronic instability and ongoing discomfort. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury with a physical examination and imaging studies to determine the severity of the damage. Treatment may include bracing, anti-inflammatory care, or immobilization for more serious injuries. Surgery is sometimes considered when ligaments fail to heal properly. If you have an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM from Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.